Orenda is the force present in all people, that empowers them to transform their own lives and the world.

Show up. Open up. Rise up.
Together.

Orenda Community, Youth and Family Society (‘Orenda’) is non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the well-being of youth, families, and individuals through a range of programs.

Our workshops, retreats, and resources provide safe spaces and transformative tools for the mind, body, and spirit. Members of our community learn to advocate for their well-being while forging authentic connections with themselves and each other. We strive to be a leading force for personal and collective transformation, where all people feel empowered and deeply connected.

With Orenda, youth, families and individuals show up and find purpose, open up to build authentic relationships, and rise up to make a meaningful difference in their own lives and the world around them.

The values we stand for

We are steadfast in our commitment to growth, well-being, authenticity and our community.

  • Growth

    We embody the roles of both teacher and student, mentor and collaborator, cultivating a mindset of continuous learning, openness, and curiosity. We wholeheartedly embrace growth, including the discomfort it may bring, without judgment. We create a safe environment that nurtures growth, change, confidence, and healing.

  • Well-being

    We prioritize the holistic well-being of individuals, addressing their physical, mental, and emotional needs. We go beyond surface-level well-being, recognizing that true wellness is rooted much deeper. We firmly believe in the transformative power of movement, connection, and community to enrich our lives and our world

  • Authenticity

    We lead by example. By showing up as our authentic selves, we empower those around us to be vulnerable, honest, and imperfect. We believe that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and loved for who they truly are, without artifice.

    Arrive as you are; we will meet you there.

  • Community-minded

    Community is the beating heart of our organization; our catalyst for growth, well-being, and authenticity. It transcends physical boundaries and resides within our collective mindset. Wherever we go, we strive to break down barriers, interact with intention, and foster a sense of safety that enables deep, meaningful bonds to form.

  • "I wanted to say thank you so much to the Orenda team. Our daughter is over the moon and telling us what an amazing night it was. I haven't seen her this happy and engaged in so long!! It's been a rough week and this made our week to see her so happy. "

    — Parent

  • “The Orenda Women’s Weekend Retreat was a full mind, body and spirit experience I will never forget. From the moment I arrived it was apparent I was in the right place at the right time. You all allowed me to see it was never validation that I have been seeking - it was support [...] Every woman needs this experience in their life. It’s a feeling you just can’t explain.”

    — Retreat Participant

  • “This experience lit my soul on fire, yet brought so much peace and calm. I’ve never had anything like it in my life. I know my work is not done but I look forward to walking my new path knowing I have a circle that celebrates, challenges and sees me.”

    - Women’s Event Attendee

Community is the beating heart of our organization // Orenda Board Members

  • Jamie-Lee Conroy

    Co-Founder, Executive Director
    Mentor, and Facilitator at Orenda

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  • Lisa McManes

    Community Director
    Mentor and Facilitator at Orenda

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  • Shelly Scheideman

    President
    Board Chair at Orenda

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  • Elisa Boyd

    Vice President
    Board Member at Orenda

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  • Darryl Conroy

    Treasurer
    Board Member at Orenda

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  • Casey Thomas

    Secretary
    Board Member at Orenda

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  • Michelle Briegel

    Board Member at Orenda

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  • Gina Perrault

    Board Member at Orenda

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  • Natasha Duffy

    Director at Orenda

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CONTACT